Zhang An

Violin, Viola & Cello Maker · Beijing
Public information about the Chinese maker Zhang An (张安)

AboutZhang An (张), often written An Zhang, is an internationally recognized Chinese master luthier based in Beijing. He is regarded as one of China's premier fine string instrument makers. Associated with Beijing Baoqin () and trained in the lineage of master Zheng Quan (郑), he is part of China's professional violin-making community.Training & EducationHe studied traditional Italian lutherie at Scuola Internazionale di Liuteria di Cremona (International School of Violin Making in Cremona, Italy).Awards2003 — Cremona, X Triennale Antonio Stradivari - Third prize, viola; honourable mention, violin.2008 Award recipient, cello, 2008 Cremona Triennale international making competition.2013 — Beijing, 2nd China International Violin Making and Bow Making Competition Bronze cello and bronze viola.Industry LeadershipPresident of the Violin Makers Branch of the China Musical Instrument Association; frequently sits as a judge on international lutherie competition juries.How he makes his instruments1. Traditional Cremonese lutherie: molds/models after Stradivarius and Amati patterns plus his Personal Model; aged spruce tops, flamed maple back/ribs/scroll; traditional spirit or oil varnish in shaded red-amber tones.2. Modern acoustic engineering: modal analysis / acoustic testing (e.a. systems associated with Joseph Curtin); fine-tuning plate thickness, soundpost, and bridge for projection and balance.3. Tonal characteristics: deep, dark, robust lower register; exceptional responsiveness; strong projection for solo and chamber.Price Range & Market ValueViolins and violas by Zhang An typically range from about $4,000 to $8,000+. On the secondary market, a 2019 Reverb sale recorded a violin at $4,200. His cellos sit in the fine professional tier, generally about $14,500– $24,000 depending on model, age, wood, and appraisal; a 2016 Reverb sale listed a cello at $16,500. Instrument values have risen since those sales.Availability / Dealers
A Zhang An cello is currently for sale and is priced at $20,000 at Morey’s Music store in Lakewood, California. Call their store to confirm availability. (not affiliated) You can also find some of Zhang An’s other instruments on eBay or Reverb from time to time, when listings appear.

Instruments / Gallery